Oclock staining Corneal vascularization Corneal abrasion Corneal distortion Solution hypersensitivity Epithelial microcystsEndothelial polymegathismContact Lens Acute Red Eye (CLARE) Contact Lens Related ProblemsLens comfort problemsThere are many reasons why a contact lens may be uncomfortable to wear, including underlying eye disease and other contact lens complications discussed on this page. In cases where the eyes are healthy and the contact lenses are new, there is always the possibility that a lens is defective. Generally, if a lens of a given brand and curvature has been worn successfully in the past without problem, a new and uncomfortable lens makes one strongly suspicious of an abnormally curved lens, or a lens with a scratch or other defect. Since most manufacturers offer a warranty for defective lenses, it may be reasonable to return the lens for replacement or refund. In cases of new gas permeable or hard lenses, sometimes the lens can be smoothed or polished to improve the comfort.If a new lens of a different brand than has been worn before is uncomfortable, the problem may be with the fit (tightness) of the lens, the thickness of the lens, and the edge design of the lens. Some soft contact lenses have a very high oxygen permeability (extended wear type lenses), and these may be more comfortable for some people. However, these lenses also demand more ocular lubrication to keep them hydrated and moist, so eyes which are somewhat dry may not be comfortable with this type of lens. If a lens is too tight, the cornea may become starved for oxygen, leading to discomfort (see Tight Lens Syndrome below). On the other hand, a lens that is too loose may irritate the eye due to excessive movement with blinking. Finally, certain characteristics of lenses (thickness and edge design) may be simply uncomfortable for some people. It may take a follow-up examination by the optometrist to distinguish between these problems.An old lens tha...
